Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Sandra hadn't dared to bring it up—after all, it was Timothy who'd hidden their marriage from them in the first place. She was afraid that if she said anything, it would only make things harder for Jessica.

She and Abell were already well into their twilight years. Some things they might not be told directly, but it wasn't hard to guess the truth.

Jessica had long since stopped caring about any of it, especially now that she was determined to get divorced. As for why Timothy's parents hadn't reached out to see her or their grandson, she didn't much care to know.

Dwelling on these things only stirred up feelings she'd rather leave behind.

She wrote on a notepad: *"It's all right. It's in the past."*

Sandra's voice trembled as she spoke: "Sweetheart, I know Timothy must have broken your heart, and I saw how Sallie treated you yesterday. You must have suffered a lot in the Lawson family. I know it's late for us to come see you now, and I don't really have an excuse..." She sighed, feeling the weight of her own inadequacy. “Truth is, Abell and I aren't in the best health. We're getting old, and sometimes we just don't notice things we should. But could you tell your grandmother-why is it you're so set on divorce?"

Jessica didn't want to revisit all that pain.

She wrote, *"I've already filed for divorce. The hearing is in nine days. After that, you'll know everything. If you want to know sooner, you can ask Timothy. I don't want to talk about the past. Thank you for coming to see me, but I have other things to take care of. Please, I need you to go."*

Sandra and Abell felt their hearts sink.

only someone whose spirit had been utterly

was still a chance to talk things through today, but it was clear

she wanted them to

for intruding today.

hand, and

didn't anger them; anyone could tell this was Timothy's

married into the family was now desperate to get out-what other explanation could

Howard Mansion,

out the Royal Pearl Cuff Sandra had sent Jessica the day

this to me last night to return

in his wheelchair,

Timothy wouldn't take

as I was asked. The gift's been delivered, so I'll be on my

being caught in the middle or

go-between in this family drama was a